At St Nicholas School, Computing helps pupils learn how to use technology in a safe, confident, and useful way. Pupils have one Computing lesson each week, taught by a specialist teacher, where they use PCs, iPads, and other technology. In lessons, pupils learn how computers work, create digital work such as posters or videos, try simple coding, and practise skills they can use in everyday life.
Our Computing lessons follow a Skills 4 Life curriculum, where pupils build important digital skills step by step. Skills are revisited regularly so pupils have time to practise and become more confident. Lessons link closely to our whole-school quests, helping pupils use their computing skills in real-life topics such as jobs, science, and creative projects. Online safety is an important part of our curriculum and is taught in Computing lessons, PSHE lessons, workshops, and whole-school assemblies, helping pupils learn how to stay safe and make good choices when using technology.
In Key Stage 4, pupils use the skills they have learned in Key Stage 3 to work towards digital awards and qualifications, such as the iDEA Award and BCS Entry Level Essential Digital Skills for Work, which help prepare them for life after St Nicholas. Esports is also used as part of the Computing curriculum, with pupils using our high-spec gaming PCs and Nintendo Switches to develop teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and self-control. Pupils represent the school in British Esports Rocket League fixtures and attend Digital Schoolhouse regional tournaments, often travelling to London, helping them build confidence and real-world digital skills.
- A copy of the Computing Policy can be found here.
Mr Williams. Computing Subject Leader